Could one child be enough for you?

For most families, one isn't enough. The average American woman will have two children (the official census statistic is 1.86 children). But some refreshingly honest parents admit that the decision to have a second child is often based largely on what's best for the first child, not what's right for Mom and Dad. Many people believe children need siblings for companionship and so they don't grow up spoiled. Parents who buck that trend to raise only children face the stigma of selfishness.

"That's a terrible reason to have a second child," says Sylvia H., a jewelry designer and mother of 6-year-old Nick. "I've just never had the urge for another one. And Nick is such a great kid. He's a good sleeper, he has a great disposition, and he's smart. My attitude is Quit while you're ahead. Plus, we like our lifestyle now. It's manageable. That's a difficult thing to say because there aren't many people who feel the same way. Outsiders think we're being selfish." As for the playmate issue, Sylvia says Nick has plenty of interaction with friends, cousins, and classmates. And for those who think Sylvia doesn't know the joys of siblings, consider that she's one of five and they're all still very close.

Research seems to be on Sylvia's side, too. According to Bill McKibben, author of Maybe One: An Environmental and Personal Argument for Single-Child Families, studies show that only children tend to do better in school, especially in science, math, and literature; have more friends; and be more flexible about gender roles than kids in larger families. So if you're thinking you might like to stop at one and you want to talk to some like-minded parents, visit the Parents of Only Children BabyCenter Community Group. And cast your vote for how many children you'll have.

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